Wigan Athletic boss Steve Bruce has confirmed the appointment of Dave Watson as new youth coach.

"Dave was a magnificent player, a great defender and a terrific leader on and off the pitch," said Bruce. "He has taken all that experience into his coaching career, and I have every faith he will be a success here."

Watson had a spell in charge of Tranmere after his playing days came to an end in 2001, and has since worked as a scout under Bruce at both Birmingham and Wigan.

Speaking on his new position, Watson said: "You have to take these opportunities when they come around, and I am very excited about joining what is clearly a club going places.

"I think we have a very healthy crop of youngsters here, who have obviously been well coached in the past.

"Hopefully, one or two of them can start making steps towards breaking through into a higher level."